Thursday, December 10, 2009

It's the end of the year as we know it, but does that mean Cartoonists Northwest will be doing something "sketchy" for the final meeting of 2009? Well, yes and no! How 'bout something completely different? How 'bout the chance to create your own Christmas ornament or holiday gift out of glass? Yes, that's right: finally a new way to channel some of that "hot air" we all exhale in great big puffy clouds! We'll be meeting for our December gala at Blowing Sands Glass Studio. Everyone is invited to blow their own pumpkin (approx. 4" diameter), float (approx. 6"-8" diameter), or ornament (approx. 4" diameter) for $20 per piece (they're giving us a $5 break off their regular rate). No experience is necessary (literally a 3 year old has done it). We will need to know by Thursday, December 17th how many folks will want to participate, because the studio hosts need to know how many blowers they'll need. E-mail us your name and how many folks you'll have participating.

And that's not all! We'll run through a brief agenda, and then plow (nyuk!) right into the festivities. We'll share snacks and drinks (please feel free to contribute by bringing food to share with the group). This year, the Holiday Spirit means we can enjoy holiday spirits! Yes, we can have alcoholic beverages this time around, as long as we drink responsibly (this is a glass studio, after all). CNW will provide non-alcoholic drinks and utensils.

Finally, we'll play some games, including the time-honored "White Elephink" gift-exchange game! We'll explain the rules at the meeting, but for now, if you'd like to play, plan to bring a wrapped, unlabeled gift to the meeting to contribute to the gift pile. Gifts should be inexpensive, humorous items. Bring a smile to someone's face (I know: cartoonists are a "tough crowd" too, eh?)! Come and send 2009 on its way at CNW's Super Glass Blast!

What: December meeting of Cartoonists Northwest (Monthly meetings on the third Saturday of every month.)

When: Saturday, December 19th, 2009 - 6:00 PM

Booze: Yes! Encouraged! There's a lot of glass, though, so try not to be weebly-wobbly.

Cost: Free! (Unless you sign up for glass blowing; then it's $20/piece.)

Tuesday, November 24, 2009

Dear CNW members, family, and friends! It's with great pleasure that we announce the results of the vote for the Presidency of Cartoonists Northwest. The election took place on Sat. Nov. 21 at the regular monthly meeting....and MARYBETH K. BARR ("MK") won unanimously! MK brings fresh energy and enthusiasm to the CNW ship of state, and all CNW members (and prospective members) can no doubt look forward to an exciting new year of CNW happenings under her leadership. Outgoing President Keith Curtis presented a heartfelt...and hilarious...farewell speech that recapped the eventful years he spent as a CNW officer. After the vote the group celebrated by watching a short flick about Will Eisner, and the history-making animated film "Gertie the Dinosaur" (1914, Winsor McCay), followed by food and drink at the Hurricane Cafe.

President MK has begun assembling her new cabinet of officers. New Secretary Nat Cook will replace outgoing Secretary Jeff Hawley. Consider volunteering for the post of V.P. or Treasurer! Outgoing officers will train. CNW Needs YOU! If you're interested, please contact MK to discuss. Email her at cartoonistnw@gmail.com

Saturday, November 7, 2009

You can’t mail it in! You can’t phone it in! You can’t dropkick it in! NO! You have to be THERE! Come to the Cartoonists Northwest meeting in November and cast your on-the-spot vote for the office of President of Cartoonists Northwest! Exercise your franchise! Hear a stirring speech from outgoing President Keith Curtis, whose rhetorical skills are, some say, like hearing a space marine channelling Obama, FDR, and Dr. Bronner simultaneously. Gaze with awe and respect at the NEW President, whoever she or he turns out to be! By the by, you may wonder who the candidates are. Well, the answer is simple…the candidates are anybody and everybody who wants to run! And running could not be simpler. Just stand up and throw your hat in the ring. CNW has always been led by volunteers, and you can help keep up the tradition. Take a turn at the CNW helm! Don’t be scared, it’s not the Titanic. And remember, the campaign, voting, and inauguration all happens in this one meeting, so it’s painless no matter what the outcome. Be there, and be a part of CNW history in the making.

But wait, the fun of the November meeting doesn’t stop with the election. Other surprises lay in wait. Bring a favorite cartoon DVD and if we have time, we’ll watch cartoons on the big screen. Will we have reports from the hinterlands (i.e., The Writers Block Group)? The hoopla never ends at CNW meetings! See you there!

ALSO ON THE AGENDA: • Cartoonists review each others’ work and vote for ‘Best of the Northwest’. Bring your art and enter the friendly competition!• Other news and stuff, guaranteed to be of a cartoonishly edifying nature!What: Cartoonists Northwest meeting. (Monthly meetings happen on the third Saturday of every month.)When: Sat. Nov. 21, 2009Time: 6:00 p.m.Cost: Free! Location: The Art Institute of Seattle,North Campus, Room 100 (Real Networks Bldg.) Please note the room number has been changed to Room 100 for this month's meeting!2600 Alaskan WaySeattle, WA 98121

Use main entrance at corner of Alaskan Way and Vine St. Street parking is free beginning at 6 p.m.Contact: cartoonistNW@gmail.com

Thursday, October 15, 2009

Before you don your Halloween costume, look in the mirror. Yes, you’re abominably ugly even without the help of the Conan O’Brien mask , but that’s okay. The point is to look beneath the surface. Because underneath that revolting corporeal envelope, there lies the throbbing, raw material for the truest and most original comic book in the universe - - the one about yourself! Come to the October meeting and find out how to peel back your persona and confront the pulsing, living soul within, enslave it to your cartoonist will, and thus begin your journey toward an astoundingly squinky creation - - your very own Autobiographical Comic.

Cartooning educator and 2008 CNW Cartoonist of the Year David Lasky brings together five former students, Audrey Zekonis, Monica Neumann, Alex Suarez, Stephanie Trinneer and CNW Pres. Keith Curtis to demonstrate the power and reach of Comic Autobiography. The students will present their auto-bio cartoon works and share their artistic processes. Subjects range from the rolling thrill of pro bowling to dramatic injuries, cannabis and cataclysmic volcanic eruptions.

If you’re a cartoonist who’s longed to create comics redolent with the unmistakable vibe of your own pure squink, comics that practically ooze squink from every page – and who doesn’t? - then you don’t dare miss this meeting!

ALSO ON THE AGENDA: • Cartoonists review each others’ work and vote for ‘Best of the Northwest’. Bring your art or create a drawing during the meeting, and enter the friendly competition!• Other news and stuff, guaranteed to be of a cartoonishly edifying nature!What: Cartoonists Northwest meeting. (Monthly meetings happen on the third Saturday of every month.)When: Sat. Oct. 17, 2009Time: 6:00 p.m.Cost: Free! Location: The Art Institute of Seattle,North Campus, Room 503 (Real Networks Bldg.)2600 Alaskan WaySeattle, WA 98121

Use main entrance at corner of Alaskan Way and Vine St. Street parking is free beginning at 6 PM.Contact: cartoonistNW@gmail.com

Monday, September 7, 2009

Travis Bundy is set to address the multitudes at the September meeting of Cartoonists Northwest! Bundy is the writer and artist of the hard-hitting graphic novel series, “Gods of the New Empire”, a tour-de-force featuring a team of bold, original characters and the potent secret they protect, all portrayed in a vivid black and white style. The self-published series is ongoing and has seen several installments. Who are these “gods” and what is the “new empire”? Perhaps all will be revealed at the September meeting!

Bundy is also a talented illustrator with experience creating logos, posters, murals, and many other works. Here’s a bio provided by Bundy himself: “Travis Bundy was born into the fragrant cultural void known to the world as Tacoma, WA. He has been drawing and creating ever since he was old enough to hold a crayon. When he's not toiling under the boot of "the man" or drinking himself into an early grave, he continues to challenge himself in all artistic endeavors. He plans to do so until he is found expired and sprawled out over his art desk. I can only imagine that the stench will be atrocious.” For now, though, attendees at the September meet will count themselves lucky that Travis is very much alive and generously inclined to take the podium. Future stenches be damned – Travis is enjoying the sweet smell of a successfully admirable series of graphic novels, so come to the September meeting and get a whiff! For more information on Travis and his works, go to: http://www.thoughtboxcomics.com/

ALSO ON THE AGENDA: • Cartoonists review each others’ work and vote for ‘Best of the Northwest’. Bring a cartoon, or draw one during the meeting, and enter the friendly competition!• Other news and stuff, guaranteed to be of a cartoonishly edifying nature!

Friday, August 7, 2009

Cartoonists Northwest is proud to present guest speaker Beth Guizzetti at the August meeting, and you won’t want to miss it. Beth is a talented fine artist with a portfolio ranging from murals to Christmas cards to advertising, and has been a successful participant at comic cons. She the creator of the graphic novel "Famine Lands". Presently there are two graphic novels in the series: The Carp's Eye and Living Stone. The latter debuted at the San Diego International Comic Con last month. She also has a comic book called "Out for Souls and Cookies". Beth is a compelling presenter who also teaches cartooning to young and old through the public library system. Here are some quotes taken directly from her website:

“The inspirations for my paintings are the natural places of the world and the entities within. I explore with a sketchbook and camera in order to capture the basic landmarks. Many times I go to the same place during different times of the day before I start to work on a painting so I am sure to capture the essence of the place. Then I create the painting either on site or in my studio depending on what I am trying to capture. Many of the landscapes are places in my home state of Washington or other places that my adventures have taken me. Painting is a skill that I learned in order to help me focus on the places and things that I have discovered. My artwork is dedicated to these wild places and the creatures that live there. My hope is when people view my artwork they see the beauty that is in the wild and it will inspire them to work to protect it.”

“ Like most children I enjoyed coloring and drawing. I seriously started thinking about art as a career in my early teens though I gave up painting in high school to other interests. When I was nineteen, I was looking for something constructive to spend my free time. After my (then future) husband bought me an art kit; I picked up painting again. Then I spent a few years experimenting with different mediums and techniques, before I decided to dedicate my life to creating works of art focusing on Nature.”

“Being a Washington native, I have always loved the sights of the Pacific Northwest. It is easy to find inspiration in a place of such beauty.”

Come to the August meeting…it’s a matter of life and Beth!

ALSO ON THE AGENDA: • Cartoonists review each others’ work and vote for ‘Best of the Northwest’. Bring a cartoon, or draw one during the meeting, and enter the friendly competition!• Other news and stuff, guaranteed to be of a cartoonishly edifying nature!

Monday, July 27, 2009

At the July 2009 meeting of Cartoonists Northwest, guest speaker Marybeth Barr led the group in making a quick stop-motion animated film, using scenes and cutouts she prepared ahead of time. What a gas! Hang ten and take a look at it right here...

Friday, July 3, 2009

Come to the July meeting and let Marybeth Barr take you on a magic journey through her cool and colorful world. She is the creator of the whimsical book Coral, Koko, & Ponch, about a girl taken into her inner world and taught how to manage her desires and her past. Eighty illustrations guide the reader through the process of visualization and meditation.

Marybeth studied fine art at University of Illinois for two years and received her BS degree for commercial interior design from Southern Illinois University. She has been working as a commercial interior designer for 17 years for corporate, restaurant, retail, and health-care clients. Marybeth says that glass sculpting is one of her loves, too. In addition, she has managed a gallery with a small fine art section in the Seattle area. “I started making Coral, Koko & Ponch on a whim and really couldn't stop,” says Marybeth, “You might say I've been obsessed but not really sure why. I'm constantly creating new items, games, toys and other items based on being an adult and wanting some play time.” At the meeting, she’ll provide handouts with tips on getting books produced using the Print-On-Demand process. Check out Marybeth’s website at: http://www.coralkokoandponch.com/

Marybeth also makes stop-motion movies with minimal software and equipment. She’ll share at the meeting how to make them and actually make a short one during the presentation. Like one of her cool, vividly colored glass sculpture candy drops, the July meeting with Marybeth Barr is destined to be a truly bright spot in the Cartoonists Northwest summer!

ALSO ON THE AGENDA:• Cartoonists review each others’ work and vote for ‘Best of the Northwest’. Bring a cartoon, or draw one during the meeting, and enter the friendly competition!• Other news and stuff, guaranteed to be of a cartoonishly edifying nature!

Saturday, June 27, 2009

I want the CNW members to know about a big cartoon event coming up next week. Here’s the info from my blog...

Cartoonapalooza is coming!

The editorial cartoonists of North America are about to descend on Seattle and they are putting on a show.

After a year in which the ranks of staff newspaper cartoonists have been decimated, members of the Association of American Editorial Cartoonists from all over the USA and Canada are gathering in the Emerald City for their annual convention. Over four days of meetings, they will be looking for ways to navigate through the tsunami that has hit the newspaper industry and find a new niche for visual political commentary in the emerging online media world.

The prime chance for the public to encounter the practitioners of the jugular art will be at Cartoonapalooza, a one-night show on July 2nd at Town Hall in downtown Seattle. The two-hour program begins at 7:30 PM. Several leading editorial cartoonists with distinctly different styles will present their work. Among the performers will be Pulitzer Prize-winner Mike Peters, syndicated editorial cartoonist and creator of the popular cartoon strip, Mother Goose and Grimm; Jack Ohman, the Portland Oregonian's much-honored cartoonist; provocative cutting-edge cartoonist and columnist Ted Rall; Mark Fiore, the leading pioneer in the new field of animated editorial cartoons; Signe Wilkinson of the Philadelphia Daily News, a Pulitzer Prize-winner and one of the nation's top female cartoonists; Matt Bors, creator of Idiot Box and other alternative editorial cartoons, and me, David Horsey, two-time winner of the Pulitzer Prize.

Additionally, all the AAEC members will be on hand to meet the public in a reception after the show. Original cartoons will be on display and available for purchase. Proceeds from cartoon sales will help support the educational and professional activities of the AAEC. Tickets for the event will be available at the door -- $25 for adults, $15 for students. Town Hall is located at 1119 8th Avenue.

...so, please let all the CNW gang know about this. Any CNW member will get $5 off of the ticket price at the door just by mentioning they belong to Cartoonists Northwest. How’s that for a deal?

Wednesday, June 3, 2009

And, if there’s any cartoonist who knows how, it’s KEVIN BOZE. Kevin will be the guest speaker at the June meeting of Cartoonists Northwest. Some of you may recall he was supposed to be the speaker last month but had to postpone til June. Consider it a month-long period of foreplay...which is appropriate enough, because Kevin is the creator of “The Virgin Project”, the book that chronicles true stories of sexual initiation. For more about him, below is his bio from his website:

A native of Seattle, Kevin got his first professional art assignment at age 14, drawing "concept sketches" of houses for a construction company.

After graduating from high school, he joined the U.S. Army Intelligence and Security Command and soon found himself in Wuerzburg, Germany, where he debuted his first daily newspaper comic strip, "Corporal Kev", in the European edition of Stars and Stripes, the newspaper for the U.S. military.

Kevin's other comics features - "Camille", "Bark-ley Square" and "Role Call" - all have been created for distribution on the World Wide Web. Kevin also is a professional graphic artist who has created posters, advertising art, and spot illustrations for the Boeing Company, Home Brew Heaven, Camwood Players, Driftwood Players, Skagit Community Art Theatre, Island County Water Management, Snohomish County Department of Health, the Everett Police Department, and the Seattle School District.

Other arts activities include performing in Comic Biography Theater at Seattle's Bumbershoot Arts Festival in 2004, creating a 24-page comic book in 24 hours at Spawns of Insomnia and appearing in other workshops at Cascadia Con in 2005, and judging the editorial cartooning competition at the Washington Journalism Education Association state championships for the last three years.

Kevin graduated summa cum laude from Henry Cogswell College with a B.A. in Digital Arts, with an emphasis in animation. He is an active member of Cartoonists Northwest, and makes his home in Seattle with his family.

Come to the June meeting, and bring your virginity (or memories of same) with you!

ALSO ON THE AGENDA:• Cartoonists review each others’ work and vote for ‘Best of the Northwest’. Bring a cartoon, or draw one during the meeting, and enter the friendly competition!• Other news and stuff, guaranteed to be of a cartoonishly edifying nature!

What: Cartoonists Northwest meeting (Monthly meetings happen on the third Saturday of every month.)When: Sat. June 20, 2009Time: 6:00 - 9:00 p.m.Cost: Free!NOTE LOCATION CHANGE: It was formerly announced that we would be meeting at our usual place, the Art Institute, but we recently found out the school will be closed. Therefore, the location has been switched to.... The HURRICANE CAFE2230 7th Ave, Seattle, WA 98121Phone: (206) 682-5858

Hurricane Cafe is at corner of Bell and 7th. They have a full bar and food.There is a free parking lot at the Hurricane.

Monday, May 4, 2009

It was previously announced here that Kevin Boze would be the guest speaker at the May 16, 2009, meeting of Cartoonists Northwest. Unfortunately, a schedule conflict arose, and we are sorry to say that Kevin will not be speaking after all. We apologize for the inconvenience, and we will let you know when a future appearance by Kevin is in the works. In the meantime, CNW’s President Keith Curtis has sprung into the breach! Keith will go all techie on us at the May meeting, and provide a totally spacey look at his secret (Photoshop) process behind that mad creation of his, “Crater On The Moon: Story of a Space Marine”. Keith’s fumetti-style photo montage work is perhaps the most unique use of Photoshop in American comics today. Come to the May meeting and get cratered.

ALSO ON THE AGENDA: • Cartoonists review each others’ work and vote for ‘Best of the Northwest’. Bring a cartoon, or draw one during the meeting, and enter the friendly competition!• Other news and stuff, guaranteed to be of a cartoonishly edifying nature!

Sunday, May 3, 2009

If there’s any cartoonist who knows how, it’s KEVIN BOZE. Kevin will be the guest speaker at the May meeting of Cartoonists Northwest. Kevin is the creator of “The Virgin Project”, the book that chronicles true stories of sexual initiation.

A native of Seattle, Kevin got his first professional art assignment at age 14, drawing "concept sketches" of houses for a construction company.

After graduating from high school, he joined the U.S. Army Intelligence and Security Command and soon found himself in Wuerzburg, Germany, where he debuted his first daily newspaper comic strip, "Corporal Kev", in the European edition of Stars and Stripes, the newspaper for the U.S. military.

Kevin's other comics features - "Camille", "Bark-ley Square" and "Role Call" - all have been created for distribution on the World Wide Web. Kevin also is a professional graphic artist who has created posters, advertising art, and spot illustrations for the Boeing Company, Home Brew Heaven, Camwood Players, Driftwood Players, Skagit Community Art Theatre, Island County Water Management, Snohomish County Department of Health, the Everett Police Department, and the Seattle School District.

Other arts activities include performing in Comic Biography Theater at Seattle's Bumbershoot Arts Festival in 2004, creating a 24-page comic book in 24 hours at Spawns of Insomnia and appearing in other workshops at Cascadia Con in 2005, and judging the editorial cartooning competition at the Washington Journalism Education Association state championships for the last three years.

Kevin graduated summa cum laude from Henry Cogswell College with a B.A. in Digital Arts, with an emphasis in animation. He is an active member of Cartoonists Northwest, and makes his home in Seattle with his family.

Come to the May meeting, and bring your virginity (or memories of same) with you!

ALSO ON THE AGENDA: • Cartoonists review each others’ work and vote for ‘Best of the Northwest’. Bring a cartoon, or draw one during the meeting, and enter the friendly competition!• Other news and stuff, guaranteed to be of a cartoonishly edifying nature!

Thursday, April 2, 2009

Sandra compressed her full, red lips into a frown, nearly ruining her lipstick. She couldn’t stop thinking about Troy, and that bitch, Cleo. Cleo! Some friend she turned out to be. “Well”, thought Sandra, “two can play at that game.” She stubbed out her cigarette, touched up her hairspray, threw on her pearls, and called a cab. “Take me to the Cartoonists Northwest meeting, and step on it! I’ve got a date with John Lustig!”

And you’ve got one, too! Come to the Apr. 18 meeting, 6:00 p.m. sharp, and hear from one of CNW’s most creative and prolific long-time members, John Lustig! The former CNW President will share his latest experiences. Creator of the popular feature, Last Kiss, John’s latest leap forward includes getting a deal for LK to appear on GoComics.

A top Disney creator for over 20 years, Lustig has also written outrageously silly comics for Marvel, Viz and more. He is best-known for his oddball series, Last Kiss, which features old comic book art with witty new dialog. Before comics ruined his brain, Lustig was a newspaper reporter and columnist–covering everything from mass murders to school lunch menus. (Thankfully, never in the same article!) In 2001, Cartoonists Northwest presented Lustig with its highest award, the Golden Toonie. Lustig lives in Seattle with his wife and a giant, insane cat.

About Last Kiss:Pairing vintage comic art with hilarious, new dialog by Disney veteran writer John Lustig, Last Kiss revels in the absurdities of love, lust and “life with lip.” The series originated when Lustig bought the publishing rights to a romance comic book series from the ‘50s and ’60s, and started rewriting the stories for fun. Since then, the re-dialogued comics have been a popular feature in newspapers, magazines, comic books and greeting cards. Today Last Kiss is gaining popularity and is also available on e-cards from JibJab.com and greeting cards (late 2009) from NobleWorks. Check www.lastkissinc.com for the latest comic, news and product launches.

ALSO ON THE AGENDA: • Cartoonists review each others’ work and vote for ‘Best of the Northwest’. Bring a cartoon, or draw one during the meeting, and enter the friendly competition!• Other news and stuff, guaranteed to be of a cartoonishly edifying nature!What: Cartoonists Northwest meeting. (Monthly meetings happen on the third Saturday of every month.)When: Sat. April 18, 2009Time: 6:00 p.m.Cost: Free! Location: The Art Institute of Seattle,North Campus, Room 503 (Real Networks Bldg.)2600 Alaskan WaySeattle, WA 98121

Use main entrance at corner of Alaskan Way and Vine St. Street parking is free beginning at 6 p.m.Contact: cartoonistNW@gmail.com

It was wall-to-wall excitement as Cartoonists Northwest threw open the doors to the 18th Annual Toonie™ Award Banquet at Ivar’s Salmon House in Seattle on March 14, 2009. The forty-some attendees, decked out in their finest attire, buzzed with breathless anticipation of the awards ceremony, the centerpiece of the annual rite that recognizes achievement in numerous categories of the cartoon arts. (See recap below for full list of awardees).

The Toonies is about fun as much as awards. As in years past, Cartoonists Northwest made sure there was plenty of activities for everyone throughout the evening. Schmoozing was number one, followed by the cartoonist’s second-most popular activity…dinner! Hunger of another sort was satisfied via the Silent Auction. Attendees bid for original works of art and cartoon-related merchandise. Everyone received free packs of colorful Sculpey modeling clay to fashion something on the spot. From the sublime to the outrageous, the Gumbyesque results were entered into the Clay Contest. Sketchbooks were passed from table to table. The aroma of heated Sharpie pens wafted around the room.

No stellar night of awards would be complete without musical entertainment, and at the Toonies, this meant an appearance by The Amazing Martin Brothers. The all-guitar, all-cartoonist band melted what little ice remained in the room with a new hilarious parody written specially for the occasion, a ditty called “Stand By Your Hand”. Ostensibly, it was a country-and-western ode to the cartoonist’s most indispensable appendage. Double-entendre? You be the judge.

CNW FOUNDING MOTHER Maureen VanderPas and PRESIDENT Keith Curtis rocked the podium as the Madame and Master of Ceremonies. The first order of business was introduction of the CNW cabinet officers for 2009, including VICE-PRESIDENT Stephen Prescott, TREASURER Jeff Hamill, and SECRETARY Jeff Hawley.

After the delightful dinner and dessert passed into digestive history, Keith and Maureen announced the first series of recognitions, for Service Awards and Membership Certificates for 5,10, 15, 20 years and Charter Members. (See accompanying list for complete roster of names)

Roberta Gregory introduced the Special Guest Speaker, the inimitable self-publishing whirlwind Donna Barr, creator of Stinz; Desert Peach; and the popular Drawn Books series. Donna wowed the audience with a fast-paced (oh, heck, call it a blitzkrieg) talk about her work and life in the cartoon world.

Intermission was a perfect time for more schmoozing, more clay contest entries, and voting on the Best of the Northwest cartoons. The Amazing Martin Brothers hit the stage for another music interlude with comical ‘tude. The Raffle prize was then announced, with the mint condition copy of “The Original Art of Basil Wolverton” going to lucky Gabe Mintz (who also happens to be one-very-important-fourth of the Amazing Martin Brothers).

Master cartoonist Basil Wolverton was inducted posthumously into the CNW Hall of Fame. Mr. Wolverton’s granddaughter, Monica Spykerman, graciously accepted the induction award on behalf of her famous and beloved grandfather. She gave a short talk on what it was like growing up surrounded by Basil’s amazing creations. It was an inspiring personal peek into the life of one of comic-dom’s true originals, a cartooning force of nature who influenced the likes of Robert Crumb and so many other luminaries.

Complete list of award winners follows:

Each winner in the five categories below also became a nominee for the Golden Toonie for Cartoonist of the Year 2008:

In 1993, Lasky won a grant from the Xeric Foundation to self–publish his comic “Boom Boom”. Lasky's contribution to the comic book anthology “Two–Fisted Science” (written by Jim Ottaviani) chronicles the life of physicist Richard Feynman during his time with the Manhattan Project. Lasky continued to push the boundaries of traditional comics in his collaborations with Greg Stump and “Urban Hipster” (published by Alternative Comics), which was nominated in 1999 for the Harvey Award for best new series. Lasky has been nominated for numerous Ignatz Awards, and has also served on the Ignatz Award jury. He teaches cartooning with the Seattle non-profit “Art Corps”, gives “Comicstravaganza” talks at local libraries, is active in the “Zine Archive Project”, and is currently at work on a graphic novel about the Carter Family.

Additional recognitions:

Five Year MembershipScott Alan, John Brower, Bill MorseTen Year MembershipJudy Burnett, Ben GarrisonTwenty Year MembershipSteve Greenberg, George Jartos and Louis Scarborough, Jr.Twenty Five Year MembershipThe Great Vic Stredicke

About Cartoonists Northwest: Cartoonists Northwest is an association of professional and amateur cartoonists, animators, and illustrators who meet monthly to network, collaborate, and promote community among local artists. Established in 1981, CNW is one of Seattle’s longest-standing organizations and boasts membership of such artists as: Lynn Johnston (“For Better or For Worse”), David Horsey (Seattle PI), John Lustig (Disney and “Last Kiss”), Brian Basset (“Adam @ Home” and “Red and Rover”), Donna Barr (“The Desert Peach” and “Stinz”) and many more.

Monday, March 9, 2009

Art and obscenity may share blurry borders, so how can you tell the difference? Come to Cartoonists Northwest’s March meeting for an adult conversation on “Cartoonist Censorship, Self-Expression, and Social Responsibility”.

The March meeting offers an engaging and constructive roundtable discussion on the purpose and practice of cartoon art. Attendees are invited to respectfully share views on this controversial subject, stimulating action toward creating more successful and expressive cartoons.

On the menu are incendiary and controversial images for dialogue on cartoon content, the psychological impact of symbols and concept of ‘audience’.

Among the inalienable rights of life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness, certainly there is the right to create art, but how far does the right extend when shared in public?

It’s often been explained that one cannot wantonly shout “Fire!” in a crowded theatre, and then claim the right of free speech, thereby avoiding prosecution for the crime of malicious mischief.

CNW of course takes the principled stand for the rights of all cartoonists to create and present whatever they imagine, but no cartoon made by any member should be taken to represent the views of others. In truth, CNW members, most notably club treasurer Jeff Hamill, have voiced incensed reaction to member Steven Peterson’s cartoon, voted last month’s Best-of-the-Northwest winner.

To be crystal clear—the views depicted by Cartoonists Northwest members’ cartoons do not necessarily reflect the views of other CNW members!

Nowadays with so much public confusion and retribution in mass media, there is obviously an urgent need for a discussion about the boundaries protecting the time-honored art of cartooning as art.

Political humor can be ugly. Comedy, according to Steve Martin, is not pretty.Come away from the March CNW meeting fully wielding the power of cartoon art with respect and responsibility, a comely conquering comic champion!

Use main entrance at corner of Alaskan Way and Vine St. Street parking is free beginning at 6 PM.

ABOUT CARTOONISTS NORTHWEST: Cartoonists Northwest is an association of professional and amateur cartoonists who meet monthly to network, collaborate, and promote community among local artists. Established in 1981, CNW is one of Seattle’s longest-standing organizations and boasts membership of such artists as: Lynn Johnston (“For Better or For Worse”), David Horsey (Seattle PI), John Lustig (Disney and “Last Kiss”), Brian Basset (“Adam @ Home” and “Red and Rover”), Donna Barr (“The Desert Peach” and “Stinz”) and many more.

Become a member! $30 per year to become a member of Cartoonists Northwest – a bargain at twice the price! Plus you get a one-year subscription to the CNW newsletter, PENSTUFF. To heck with your un-read subscription to Newsweek! JOIN CNW TODAY! Contact: cartoonistnw@gmail.com

Tuesday, February 17, 2009

Cartoonists, illustrators and writers from across the Pacific Northwest will set aside their pens, paper, and pixels to convene for one glorious evening as Cartoonists Northwest (CNW) hosts their 18th Annual Toonie™ Award Banquet. The annual rite takes place on Saturday, March 14, 2009, at Ivar's Salmon House restaurant on Lake Union.

The event opens with a social hour and no-host bar at 6 PM. Dinner is at 7 PM, followed by the awards ceremony for categories such as illustration, best writer, web comics, syndicated comics, and more. Of special note will be the announcement of the club’s highest honor, the Golden Toonie™ award for the 2008 Cartoonist of the Year.

Whether cartoonist, fan or friend, all are invited to come share the fun! Tickets: $50 for Salmon, $45 for Chicken, $40 for Vegetarian/Pasta. $5 off each if two dinners ordered. Reservations required by March 1, 2009. For reservations or information, email CartoonistsNW@aol.com or call the Toonie™ Hotline at 206.369.2123 and Maureen will be happy to help you.

About Cartoonists Northwest: Cartoonists Northwest is an association of professional and amateur cartoonists who meet monthly to network, collaborate, and promote community among local artists. Established in 1981, CNW is one of Seattle’s longest-standing organizations and boasts membership of such artists as: Lynn Johnston (“For Better or For Worse”), David Horsey (Seattle PI), John Lustig (Disney and “Last Kiss”), Brian Basset (“Adam @ Home” and “Red and Rover”), Donna Barr (“The Desert Peach” and “Stinz”) and many more.

Tuesday, February 10, 2009

Mark Campos is a prolific Seattle-area cartoonist and writer whose work hasappeared in anthologies such as Hyena, Gay Comix, and the recentReal Magicalism and TYPHON. His solo work includes the two-issuePlaces That Are Gone series, and several issues of Exapno Mapcase.His work with the Finecomix group was published in the criticallyacclaimed Moxie, My Sweet. His reviews have appeared in The ComicsJournal, Comics F/X, Poopsheet, and Zine World.

Mark is a member of Finecomix, the Seattle-based collective of cartoonists who collaborate to help push comics as an artform. In Moxie, My Sweet, all stories were written by him and drawn by the rest of the group. Mark's stories explore life, language, and literature; he has his own style, but can also riff on grooves laid down by such writers as Walt Kelly, J.R.R. Tolkein, and Philip K. Dick. Illustrators include David Lasky, Stefan Gruber, Tatiana Gill, Dalton Webb, and more.

Mark has worked as an artist on indy hits like Naughty Bits. Mark is also a member of “Friends of the Nib”. Founded by visionary cartoonist Jim Woodring and Bob Rini, “Friends of the Nib” is a modern cartoonist salon. Cartoonists participating include: Jim Woodring, Bob Rini, Kinoko, Dalton Webb, Mark Campos, Matt Tamaru, Sara Spink, Angela Stork, Max Clotfelter, Scott Faulkner, and David Lasky.

It has been said that, in his spare time, Mark avoids responsibility. Mark reports that he is married to Kaija, and they have one cat. With family life in addition to his notable drawing and writing output, it’s hard to imagine Mark having very much spare time, so it’s fortunate that he will spend some of it addressing Cartoonists Northwest! Don’t miss this chance to hear from one of comic-dom’s most creative talents! Come to the February meeting, my sweet!

ALSO ON THE AGENDA: • Cartoonists review each others’ work and vote for ‘Best of the Northwest’. Bring your art and enter the friendly competition!• Other news and stuff, guaranteed to be of a cartoonishly edifying nature!

Use main entrance at corner of Alaskan Way and Vine St. Street parking is free beginning at 6 p.m. (Psst! Best bets are meters along Elliott Ave. There is also a paid parking garage on Elliott two blocks south of Vine.)Contact: cartoonistNW@gmail.com

Sunday, January 4, 2009

It’s a whole new year, and that means it’s time to vote for the office of President of Cartoonists Northwest! Come to the January 17 meeting to meet the candidates and exercise your franchise! Will current Prez Keith Curtis be unseated, and if so, by whom? Whatever the outcome, plan to attend and be a part of CNW history in the making. Consider running for office yourself! It’s a wide open race. The choices are yours, the politics will be minimal, and thus too will be the drama. Why, CNW doesn’t even have any political parties! No, all we have is… the re-booted holiday party! Last month’s meeting and party was cancelled due to bad weather, as you will recall. Now, let’s try that once more, with feeling. Come and wish your cartooning colleagues the belated joys of the season! We’ll run through the voting, and a short agenda, and then dive right into the festivities. Enjoy snacks and drinks (sorry, no alcohol allowed). Feel free to contribute to the goodies table by bringing food to share with the group! CNW will provide drinks and utensils. We’ll play a hilarious round of “Quick Draw”. And that’s not all! Bring a wrapped gift and play the “White Elephink” gift-exchange game! Here are the rules:

Participants bring their wrapped (but not labelled) gift to add to "the pile." Gifts should be inexpensive, humorous items or used items from home. The term “white elephink”, besides paying homage to the Popeye-speak of master cartoonist Elzie Segar, refers to a gift whose cost exceeds its usefulness. (Kind of like having J. Wellington Wimpy for a friend. But we digress.)

All participants draw a number from a hat. The participant with #1 unwraps any gift from the pile and then shows it to everyone. Each successive participant can either 1) "steal" an already opened gift or 2) be adventurous and pick out a wrapped gift from the pile. If the participant chooses to steal, the person whose gift is stolen now repeats their turn and either 1) steals another person's gift (they cannot immediately steal back the gift that was just stolen from them) or 2) unwraps a new gift. This cycle of stealing continues until a new gift is chosen, at which point the turn is passed to the participant with the next number from the drawing.

Since items can be stolen, the item in your possession is not yours until the game is over (e.g., a food item cannot be eaten until the game is over). However, a gift is declared "safe" after it has been stolen three times. If it’s edible, you may then eat it. If it’s not edible, you can still eat it. Your choice!

ALSO ON THE AGENDA: • Cartoonists review each others’ work and vote for ‘Best of the Northwest’. Bring your art and enter the friendly competition!• Other news and stuff, guaranteed to be of a cartoonishly edifying nature!

Use main entrance at corner of Alaskan Way and Vine St. Street parking is free beginning at 6 p.m. (PSSST: Best bets are meters along Elliott. Alternatively, there is a paid parking garage on Elliott two blocks south of Vine.)